Cardinia community members are invited to provide feedback on a draft document aimed at reducing gambling harm in the local community.
Input provided will help shape the final version of Cardinia Shire Council’s Gambling Harm Prevention and Minimisation Policy, which will replace the existing Responsible Gaming Policy.
Reducing harm from gambling is a legislative responsibility of the council and is a key objective in Cardinia Shire’s Liveability Plan 2017-29.
The draft policy is informed by a background paper and initial key stakeholder consultation, which outlines the council’s roles and responsibilities in minimising and preventing the health, social and economic harms associated with gambling in the community.
According to a report from the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation, more than $35 million was lost to Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs) in Cardinia Shire in 2022-23 – an average loss of $96,005 per day, or $365 per adult resident in Cardinia.
Studies show gambling losses usually impact those who can least afford them, including those who are unemployed, on lower incomes, or with fewer qualifications, while statistics also show that the most disadvantaged communities incur the greatest financial losses due to poker machine gaming.
If you or someone you know is impacted by gambling harm, contact Gamblers Help Southern for a free and confidential chat on 9575 5353 or visit gamblershelpsouthern.org.au
For more information on the updated policy or to provide feedback, visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay by Tuesday 30 April.
